Police investigators and prosecutors have been urged to uphold professionalism, integrity, and human rights in their duties. This call was made by the Inspector General of Police, Abbas Byakagaba, amidst growing concerns about human rights violations, particularly regarding the police’s handling of protests and opposition politicians.

Byakagaba’s remarks were delivered at the launch of the Annual Coordination Meeting between the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) in Kibuli on Wednesday. He emphasized that the collaboration is crucial for maintaining law and order.

He encouraged participants to use the meeting, themed “The Contribution of ODPP and CID in the Socio-Economic Transformation of Uganda,” to address corruption and enhance public trust, which has been eroded by the selective prosecution of minor offenders.

At the same event, Director of Public Prosecutions Jane Frances Abodo praised the police for their efforts to improve their headquarters. She expressed optimism that the two-day meeting would provide valuable insights to support Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.

Abodo highlighted that discussions will address critical issues such as corruption, terrorism, land crimes, human rights in criminal proceedings, and preparations for the upcoming 2026 elections.

CID Director AIGP Major Tom Magambo stated that the meeting would assist in realigning their work to support Uganda’s economic transformation. Magambo emphasized that there is no way they can continue operating outside what the people of Uganda want.

He expressed confidence that the meeting would help identify effective ways to achieve this and improve the criminal justice system. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to preside over the closing ceremony on September 5, 2024.